(a) In this section, "benefits from governmental programs or civil or military service" means a benefit, program, or assistance provided under a statute or regulation including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

(b) Unless the power of attorney otherwise provides and subject to Section 62-8-201, language in a power of attorney granting general authority with respect to benefits from governmental programs or civil or military service authorizes the agent to:

(1) execute vouchers in the name of the principal for allowances and reimbursements payable by the United States or a foreign government or by a state or subdivision of a state to the principal, including allowances and reimbursements for transportation of the individuals described in Section 62-8-213(a)(1), and for shipment of their household effects;

(2) enroll in, apply for, select, reject, change, amend, or discontinue, on the principal's behalf, a benefit or program;

(3) prepare, file, and maintain a claim of the principal for a benefit or assistance, financial or otherwise, to which the principal may be entitled under a statute or regulation;

(4) initiate, participate in, submit to alternative dispute resolution, settle, oppose, or propose or accept a compromise with respect to litigation concerning a benefit or assistance the principal may be entitled to receive under a statute or regulation; and

(5) receive the financial proceeds of a claim described in item (4) and conserve, invest, disburse, or use for a lawful purpose anything so received.

HISTORY: 2016 Act No. 279 (S.778), Section 1, eff January 1, 2017.